History

For decades, many in Round Valley have dreamed of a local radio station. In May 2011, a group of Round Valley residents began holding open meetings after HR1147, The Low Power Community Radio Act was signed into law. During research and preparation to apply for a low power license, an existing Full Power Construction Permit for Covelo was discovered by the group – but it was due to expire in November 2011. The prior owners, KOZT in Fort Bragg, generously offered to donate the permit to the Friends of the Round Valley Public Library and aided in the legal and technical aspects necessary to successfully file the paperwork and transfer ownership of the Broadcast License. KOZT’s generosity along with the outpouring of in-kind and fiscal support from Round Valley individuals and businesses enabled us to purchase the necessary equipment to fulfill the requirements of the permit before the November 2011 deadline and submit a successful application for a full power broadcast license.

KYBU first signed on air on December 11, 2011. Through peer-to-peer training, KYBU now has local music DJs, weather reporters, a locally produced oral history show, a locally produced daily almanac, bulletin board and community calendar volunteers. While KYBU initially played mostly music programming, our schedule now boasts a diverse array of talk, news, interviews and short informative segments. KYBU played a key role in the recent North Pass Fire incident, providing a reliable source of information to help keep our community members safe. KYBU is a volunteer run organization, with weekly open meetings where the general management of the station is discussed.

These individuals, businesses, and organizations were instrumental in bringing community radio to Round Valley! Their financial support purchased the first wave of broadcast and studio equipment, and covered the costs associated with obtaining a broadcast license.

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Mission Statement

As a nonprofit volunteer organization, KYBU community radio station will focus on programming that is informative, engaging, entertaining, empowering, inspiring, and respectful of the diversity of its listeners while preserving local cultural history and encouraging wellness, prosperity, and a greater sense of community